Washington State Firearms Regulations

Washington State Overview

Washington State has implemented several firearms regulations that exceed federal requirements. As a licensed dealer operating in Brush Prairie, Washington, Arsenal Armory adheres to all applicable state laws.

Waiting Periods

Washington State mandates waiting periods for all firearm purchases. These periods are 10 days or longer depending on state regulations. Waiting periods begin after all paperwork is completed and the background check is initiated.

All firearms in Washington: 10 days waiting period minimum. Waiting periods vary by state—see our waiting periods by state chart for details.

Age Requirements

Washington State imposes age requirements that exceed federal minimums for certain firearm categories.

Universal Background Checks

Washington State requires background checks for virtually all firearm transfers, including private party sales (I-594, effective 2014).

Transfers Requiring Background Check

• All sales through licensed dealers (standard)
• All private party sales (must go through FFL)
• Gifts between non-family members
• Online purchases shipped to Washington
• Firearms received through inheritance (with exceptions)

Exempt Transfers

• Bona fide gifts between immediate family members (parent, child, sibling, grandparent, grandchild, spouse, domestic partner)
• Antique firearms (manufactured before 1899)
• Temporary transfers for lawful hunting, sporting, or educational purposes
• Transfers to prevent imminent death or bodily harm
• Law enforcement and military in official capacity

Private Party Transfer Process

1. Both parties come to Arsenal Armory together
2. Seller transfers firearm to us (logged into A&D book)
3. Buyer completes ATF Form 4473 and background check
4. Applicable waiting period observed
5. Upon approval, buyer takes possession
6. Private party transfer fee applies (see Transfer Fees)

Semi-Automatic Rifle Requirements (I-1639)

Initiative 1639, effective July 1, 2019, imposed additional requirements for semi-automatic rifle purchases in Washington State.

Definition

"Semiautomatic assault rifle" under Washington law means any rifle that uses part of the energy of a firing cartridge to extract the fired case and chamber the next round, requiring a separate trigger pull for each shot.

Requirements

• Age 21+: Must be 21 years or older to purchase
• Enhanced Background Check: Washington State Patrol conducts additional check beyond NICS
• 10 Business Day Waiting Period: Minimum wait regardless of background check status
• Proof of Training: Must provide evidence of completing a recognized firearm safety course within the last 5 years
• Signed Waiver: Must sign waiver allowing release of health records for background check purposes
• Annual Background Check: Purchasers subject to annual background rechecks

Accepted Training Documentation

• Certificate from a certified firearms instructor
• NRA or other recognized safety course completion
• Hunter education certificate
• Military service (DD-214 or current military ID)
• Law enforcement training documentation
• Concealed Pistol License (CPL) as proof of prior training

Large Capacity Magazine Restrictions

Effective July 1, 2022, Washington State prohibits the manufacture, import, distribution, and sale of large capacity magazines (SB 5078).

Definition

"Large capacity magazine" means any ammunition feeding device with the capacity to accept more than 10 rounds of ammunition.

What This Means

• Sale Prohibited: Arsenal Armory cannot sell magazines exceeding 10-round capacity
• Possession Legal: Magazines owned before July 1, 2022 may be legally possessed
• Repair Allowed: We can repair existing large capacity magazines
• Import Prohibited: Cannot bring new large capacity magazines into Washington for sale

Exemptions

• Law enforcement agencies and officers
• Armed forces members for official duties
• Licensed firearms manufacturers for law enforcement/military contracts
• Magazines for antique firearms
• .22 caliber tube magazines

NFA Items in Washington State

Washington State permits civilian ownership of most NFA items, with some restrictions on short-barreled shotguns.

Secure Storage Requirements

Washington State imposes civil liability for failure to securely store firearms under certain circumstances (RCW 9.41.360).

Liability Applies When

• A prohibited person or minor gains access to an unsecured firearm
• The firearm is used to injure or kill someone
• The owner knew or should have known of the risk

Safe Storage Recommendations

Arsenal Armory strongly recommends secure storage for all firearms. We offer safes, lock boxes, trigger locks, and cable locks. See our Safety & Responsibility section.

Prohibited Locations

Washington State law prohibits carrying firearms (open or concealed) in certain locations, regardless of CPL status:

• Schools and school grounds (K-12)
• School-sponsored events and transportation
• Areas of establishments classified as off-limits to minors (bars)
• Courtrooms and court facilities
• Jails and law enforcement facilities
• Mental health facilities
• Secure areas of airports
• Certain public meetings and demonstrations (local ordinances may apply)

Note: Private property owners may prohibit firearms on their premises. Look for posted signage.

Relevant Washington State Laws

• RCW 9.41: Firearms and Dangerous Weapons (primary statute)
• I-594 (2014): Universal background checks
• I-1639 (2019): Semi-automatic rifle regulations
• SB 5078 (2022): Large capacity magazine restrictions
• RCW 9.41.360: Secure storage liability
• RCW 9.41.300: Prohibited locations

This information is provided for general guidance only and does not constitute legal advice. Laws change; verify current requirements with an attorney or official sources.